19th Century Portrait Frame

A gilded 19th century frame against a black background. There is intricate floral detail along the inner edge and at the corners. It is surrounded by a patterend border.

Identification

  • Object Type: Picture frame, for portrait painting.
  • Date: 19th Century
  • Origin: Englad
  • Owner: Private
  • Maker: Unknown
  • Measurements: 
    • Height: 54.5 cm
    • Width: 44.5 cm
  • Materials:  Pinewood structure and composite materials for the ornaments, gesso, and gold 23.5 carat

Summary

The frame structure of the piece exhibits meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Crafted primarily from durable pine wood, it boasts a sturdy construction designed to provide both support and aesthetic appeal. Intricate carving has been applied to enhance its visual allure, showcasing a blend of traditional artistry and skilled execution. 

Condition: 

Based on the assessment of the structural and surface conditions of the materials/components, the frame has undergone significant deterioration attributed to various factors. The accumulation of dirt, grime, and adhesive failure indicates suboptimal storage conditions and improper handling over time. Additionally, the absence of external support within the inner frame, along with the presence of nails and holes, suggests structural weaknesses likely exacerbated by adhesive failure and incorrect relative humidity levels. 

Treatments: 

After careful assessment of the frame’s structural and surface conditions, a detailed treatment plan was formulated to address the identified issues comprehensively. The plan encompassed a systematic approach to cleaning, stabilization, reconstruction, gilding, toning, and additional treatment steps, ensuring the restoration and preservation of the frame’s integrity and aesthetic appeal. 

Additional treatment steps included the removal of bronze paint using advanced techniques and solvents, addressing nail corrosion, and careful removal of adhesive and tape residues. Broken supports were reattached, and damaged ornamentation underwent necessary repairs through re-carving and recasting. Finally, the frame was regilded and aged to achieve the desired aesthetic in line with the owner requests. 

Throughout the restoration process, rigorous tests were conducted to validate treatments choices and ensure compatibility with the frame’s materials and historical context.  

Behind the Scenes

The frame before treatment in five parts. The border is missing a lot of the detailing, and the four edge pieces are separated from the border. The whole frame is covered in a thick bronze paint that obscures the intricate floral detailing. The corners are damaged with a lot of the ornamentation missing.
Frame prior to conservation treatment.
A gilded 19th century frame against a black background. There is intricate floral detail along the inner edge and at the corners. It is surrounded by a patterend border.
After treatments recto (left) and verso (right) view.
The reverse side of the frame after treatment. It has been reconstructed and 8 wooden blocks have been fixed to the frame to hold a painting.

This frame was treated by Quinn and Giorgia. Click on their individual profiles to learn more about them.

Note: All images were taken by the conservators unless stated otherwise.

Quinn, a white person in their early 20s with short brown hair and glasses. They are smiling softly and glancing to the right and wearing a plaid shirt. The photo is in black and white.
Meet Quinn
Giorgia a white woman in her early thirties with long dark hair smiling at the camera, wearing a black shirt. The photo is in black and white.
Meet Giorgia

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